Will the Pacific Northwest be hit by its first major storm of the season? Intense winds and high surf warnings rock Oregon and Washington coasts

Residents across the Pacific Northwest are on high alert as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Portland issues the season’s first high-wind warning, signaling the start of what meteorologists predict will be a series of powerful ocean storms sweeping in from the North Pacific. The alert remains in effect from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, covering coastal regions of Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon.

According to the NWS, an ocean cyclone with a central pressure of 986 hPa is expected to move off the Washington coast Saturday morning, marking the beginning of an active storm cycle that could extend into early November. “Serious mid-latitude cyclones are now predicted over the next 10 days,” warned University of Washington meteorologist Cliff Mass, underscoring the potential for severe weather events in the days ahead.

What to Expect: Fierce Winds and Rough Seas

Meteorologists forecast southerly winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph along the coast and potentially 65 mph near heavy showers. The warning covers Pacific, Wahkiakum, and Clatsop counties, where authorities have urged residents to prepare for possible power outages, fallen trees, and travel disruptions.

The National Weather Service cautioned that “damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.”
In addition, the agency issued a high-surf advisory for the south Washington coast, warning of waves up to 20 feet and the threat of sneaker waves that can appear suddenly, putting beachgoers at serious risk.

“Destructive waves may wash over beaches, jetties, and other structures unexpectedly,” the NWS added. Coastal erosion and flooding of low-lying shorelines are also possible, especially during high tides.

Multiple Weather Warnings Across Oregon and Washington

The storm system is also prompting wind advisories across inland regions. The Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon and Foothills of the Northern Blue Mountains are expected to see southwest winds between 20 and 30 mph, with gusts reaching 45 mph, according to the National Weather Service’s 8:47 p.m. Friday update.

The Portland and Vancouver metro areas are bracing for gusts of up to 50 mph, especially near rain showers and thunderstorms. These conditions, combined with nearly 100% chances of rain through Sunday, will make for a drenched and blustery weekend.

The NWS has advised residents to secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, decorations, and trash bins that could be blown away by the wind. Motorists, particularly those driving trucks, trailers, or RVs, are urged to exercise caution due to potential crosswinds on highways and bridges.

Meteorologists Warn: This Is Just the Beginning

Experts suggest this storm could set the tone for an active and volatile fall weather pattern. “The Pacific is sending a train of storms our way,” said Mass. “Residents should expect wind, rain, and the possibility of localized flooding for several days to come.”

Forecasts indicate persistent rainfall and temperatures hovering in the mid-50s, keeping skies gray and conditions damp across Oregon and Washington through next week.

Authorities emphasize vigilance for anyone heading outdoors or near coastal waters, advising:

• Never turn your back on the ocean

  
  
  

• Avoid jetties and rocks during high surf conditions

• Supervise children and pets closely near the shore

FAQs

1. Which areas are under the storm warning?
The high-wind warning covers Southwest Washington and Northwest Oregon, including Pacific, Wahkiakum, and Clatsop counties, while Portland and Vancouver metro areas remain under a wind advisory.

2. How strong will the winds get?
Coastal areas may see sustained winds of 20–30 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph, while inland areas could experience gusts between 40–50 mph.

3. When will the storm end?
The first storm is expected to subside by late Saturday night, but additional systems are forecasted to arrive throughout the coming week.

4. What precautions should residents take?
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, avoid coastal areas, and stay off roads during peak gusts to reduce the risk of injury or property damage.

5. Will there be power outages?
Yes, power disruptions are highly likely in coastal and wooded regions where trees and branches may fall onto power lines.